Patna: A new double-track rail bridge parallel to the Rajendra Setu is in its final stages of completion, promising a major boost to rail connectivity between north and south Bihar.
Railway officials said train operations on the bridge are expected to begin by May or June 2026, offering relief to passengers who currently face long delays due to congestion on the existing route.
The new bridge, spanning approximately 1.86 kilometres over the Ganges, has been constructed at an estimated cost of around Rs 1,700 crore. The total project, including approach lines, extends nearly 14 kilometres.
At present, heavy traffic on the old Rajendra Setu often forces trains to wait on outer tracks, leading to significant delays. The new double-line bridge is expected to eliminate these bottlenecks and allow trains to run at speeds of up to 110 km/h.
Officials confirmed that the civil construction of the bridge has been completed and tracks have already been laid. A dedicated railway office has also been set up, while safety inspections of the track are currently under way.
Work on electrification is progressing rapidly, with poles installed and high-tension power cables being laid. Once the electrical work is completed, the Commissioner of Railway Safety will carry out a final inspection before granting approval for operations.
The project is expected to significantly improve train punctuality and reduce travel time for passengers travelling on the busy Mokama-Barauni section.
In addition to passenger benefits, the new bridge will also facilitate smoother movement of freight trains, providing a boost to trade and logistics in the region.
Officials said the project marks an important step in strengthening Bihar’s railway infrastructure and enhancing connectivity across the state.
